Page 9 - Plastics News Issue May 2025

FROM THE EDITOR'S PEN

Dear Readers,

As we turn the page to a critical chapter in India’s journey toward sustainable
industrial development, it is with immense anticipation and pride that we look ahead
to the 2nd Global Conclave on Plastics Recycling and Sustainability (GCPRS),
scheduled for next month 17th-20th June, 2025. Organized under the aegis of
AIPMA & CPMA, the upcoming show brings together innovators, policymakers,
recyclers, and global leaders to deliberate on the future of plastics in a circular
economy.

This year’s conclave promises to be more impactful, with a robust agenda that
includes international collaborations, advanced recycling technologies, and
sustainable material innovation, GCPRS is set to reaffirm India’s commitment to
transforming challenges into opportunities.

The Plastics Industry in 2025: A Defining Moment

As we move into the middle of 2025. With a market size projected to surpass
USD 45 billion, the sector continues to play a vital role in packaging, automotive,
agriculture, construction, healthcare, and countless other domains. However,
this growth is now being critically measured against sustainability benchmarks,
resource efficiency, and environmental impact.

This dual focus—on innovation and responsibility—has catalyzed investments
in recycling infrastructure, biodegradable polymers, extended producer
responsibility (EPR) compliance, and design for recyclability.

Policy Landscape: Upcoming Notifications

The policy environment is equally dynamic. In the coming weeks, the Ministry
of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) is expected to release
updated guidelines for plastic waste processing targets under the EPR framework,
along with clarifications on the use of compostable plastics and labeling standards.

Registration of micro and small producers, sellers, manufacturers, and importers
of raw materials is a mandatory requirement under the Plastic Extended Producer
Responsibility (EPR) framework, implemented through the Plastic EPR Portal
established by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in India.

Who Must Register?

The following micro and small-scale entities must register through the EPR Portal:

♦ Producers – Entities that manufacture plastic packaging materials or products.

♦ Importers – Businesses that import plastic products or packaging.

♦ Brand Owners – Companies (including MSMEs) that sell products under a reg-

May 2025 PLASTICS NEWS 9